Photographer's Note

Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes in Toledo. Founded by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella to commemorate their triumph over the Portuguese at Toro in 1476, the church was started in 1477. It was finished, together with the cloisters, in 1504, dedicated to St. John the Evangelist, and used from the beginning by the Franciscan friars. An example of Gothic-Spanish-Flemish style, San Juan de los Reyes was restored after the damage caused during Napoleon's invasion and after its abandonment in 1835. Since 1954 it has been entrusted again to the Franciscans. This is taken from the church with the door in the background leading to the beautiful two storey cloisters.

A beautiful shot -- a small invasion of privacy, but I'm glad you did it so that we can share in this quiet moment, too. By including this young woman, you give meaning to this ornate and otherwise somewhat cold interior. Because she is sitting in a ray of light, backlit by the brightness of the adjoining area of the church, because she has that expression on her face - then we get a glimpse into the meaning of this church and her faith.

I would only wish she didn't have that clunky handbag, but we can't always control these things, can we? ;)

Hello Chris,
This is a fine picture. You found the right spot for a shot of the nice looking young woman. The light from inside the cloisters creates a perfect background to her head. There is a fine and peaceful atmosphere and the light is very well handled.
Kind regards,
Gert

Hi Chris,
Basking in the light, it seems her prayers are about to be answered.
Her neck is stiff and she seems conscious of being clicked by you.She is trying not to look towards you, but where are her concentrations, only Lord knows.

I like the golden effects on the wall outside the door, and appreciate your wonderful management of light, without which the composition turns into just a snap shot.

Unique photo Chris,the lady looks atractive and she doesnt really fit into the scene,but shes very welcome indeed ;=],wht i like most is the see trough the door,into the other room,really fine control of light1